In case you’re craving one thing completely different for dinner, Portland has some actually standout spots. After many evenings exploring the town, I’ve discovered some gems – from fashionable Center Japanese to hip Asian fusion and enjoyable American dishes with a twist. Listed here are my private favorites…
1. Tusk – greatest for Center Japanese
I’m a giant fan of this stylish, fashionable and now iconic spot! Situated within the Buckman District, it gives artistic Center Japanese and Mediterranean dishes in a lightweight, vivid area with minimalist design, inventive geometric accents, and plush greenery.
I come right here for the unbelievable mezze dishes and falafel, however their different vegetable-focused plates are additionally a specialty. They use farm-fresh produce and a sustainable ethos to create tasty dishes like Quinoa Tabouleh and Chanterelle Skewers with shishito peppers, inexperienced harissa, and honey.
I additionally discovered that there’s additionally a spread of meat and fish choices, together with the favored albacore skewer. Wine and Mediterranean-inspired cocktails are additionally served they usually typically obtain essential acclaim – Bon Appétit even named it “50 Greatest New Eating places in America” in 2017!
The one factor I’d say is that’s restricted seating so it will probably really feel crowded at busier occasions.
- Handle: 2448 E Burnside St, OR 97214
- Location Map
- Tusk Web site
- Who would take pleasure in: foodies, Instagrammers, vegans, health-conscious, fashionable seekers
- Worth: $$
My favourite highlights…
- Gorging on the unbelievable Barbari bread (Iranian leavened flatbread) and the distinctive Saffron Rice with pickled cherries and almonds.
- Making an attempt the Baked Fig dessert—simply wow! It was surprisingly wholesome for a dessert, too!
2. Mucca Osteria – greatest for Italian
After I’m searching for a romantic spot in Downtown, I select this place! It has an enthralling vibe with cozy, rustic-chic decor, that includes picket beams, uncovered brick partitions, inventive touches, and smooth lighting – excellent for a date night time!
It chef-owned and operated and serves up scrumptious upscale Italian meals however with a contemporary twist with hand-made pasta, freshly made antipasti and major dishes with seasonal substances (so the menu modifications often).
Throughout my go to, I had the choice of selecting both à la carte or a four-course prix fixe menu, the place I may choose dishes for Appetizer, Pasta, Major Course, and Dessert. The wine checklist was additionally very intensive however I’d simply say it was fairly tough to park close by.
My private highlights…
- Going for a wonderful date night time and eating on the scrumptious Tortelli ai Funghi with asparagus, almonds and white wine adopted by the Pistachio lemon Mousse Cake dessert which was divine!
- Reserving a desk close to the massive floor-to-ceiling window throughout a lunchtime go to – excellent for some excellent people-watching!
3. Departure Lounge – greatest for Pan Asian and sushi
I’m a sucker for ultra-modern minimalist design and I simply love iconic place! Situated within the fifteenth ground of upscale The Nines Lodge in Downtown, the fashion at this luxurious spot is urban-contemporary with refined Asian influences and many steel and glass. I assumed had an virtually futuristic look.
The delicacies right here is artistic pan-Asian so there’s an enormous number of influences from Japan and Korea to China and Thailand. They serve up a few of my favourite meals together with freshly made dim sum, sushi and noodles. There’s additionally a wide range of meat and different fish dishes on the menu, artistic cocktails and vegan choices too.
Different stand-out options embody its standard rooftop bar with lounge seating which had a energetic social gathering vibe, its unbelievable weekend brunch choices (I extremely advocate going!) and its sturdy concentrate on sustainability. I simply have to say, it is a luxurious restaurant so additionally anticipate luxurious costs to match!
My highlights…
- Having fun with the excellent rooftop bar – I Ioved the breathtaking 360-degree views of the town skyline and with the ability to see the Willamette River, and even Mount Hood!
- Eating on scrumptious nuka carrot rolls, Thai glass noodles and crispy tempeh steam buns.
4. Melting Pot – greatest for fondue
That is my go to put for consolation meals! It’s a contemporary and enjoyable tackle the standard European fondue restaurant (the place small items of meals are dipped right into a sizzling sauce) and inside I discovered a comfy vibe with darkish wooden and black decor.
Situated within the Lloyd District, tables are set as much as cater in the direction of sociable massive events and intimate eating with lengthy tables and cubicles (simply be sure you ebook upfront to get a desk of your selection)!
The meals is hearty right here and comes within the type of several types of fondue with both a customizable four-course menu or à la carte and though the dishes are meat and cheese heavy there are some vegan choices too.
I’m personally a giant fan of this enjoyable and distinctive spot and I feel it’s an excellent place to have fun particular events with an fascinating interactive eating expertise! I simply want to say, the eating expertise is slower-paced than ordinary which gained’t swimsuit everybody.
My favourite highlights…
- Dipping tasty selfmade gluten-free bread into the wealthy Spinach Artichoke sauce made with Spinach, Artichoke hearts, garlic and tabasco.
- Choosing the unbelievable dessert the place I dipped in strawberries, marshmallows and pound cake right into a chocolate fondue – it was a heavenly expertise!
5. Lechon – greatest for South American Meals
I really like how this restaurant combines fashionable decor with a country really feel! Situated within the historic waterfront space of the town, it serves up revolutionary South American delicacies with flavors from everywhere in the area, particularly Argentina!
I used to be a giant fan of the design right here which was colourful and eclectic with hipster-friendly uncovered brick, lashings of wooden and placing South American impressed patterns. I assumed the open kitchen, out of doors patio and heat lighting made it much more inviting!
The dishes have been a mixture of grilled and wood-fired meats, tapas, conventional empanadas, South American road meals, plant-based dishes and seafood dishes like ceviche (which was unbelievable!). Total I assumed it was a really first rate spot, however a few downsides stood out for me – parking close by was a bit difficult, and it tends to get crowded throughout peak occasions.
- Handle: 113 SW Naito Pkwy, OR 97204
- Location Map
- Lechon Web site
- Who would take pleasure in: teams of associates, {couples}, Instagrammers
- Worth: $$
My private highlights…
- Eating on South American-inspired cocktails at their standard completely happy hour – I can personally advocate the divine lechon margarita with libelula tequila!
- Choosing the unbelievable foraged mushrooms, toasted brioche and caramelized onion puree for a major and chocolate dulce de leche tart for dessert!
6. Han Oak Restaurant – greatest for Korean
That is funky spot situated within the Kerns neighborhood close to Northeast Portland. I discovered it to be a comfy, homely and artistic spot with an industrial stylish with gray concrete combined in with stainless-steel and lightweight wooden and a stunning open kitchen.
It’s a household run – however very non-traditional – Korean restaurant and I particularly loved the enjoyable, welcoming vibe and interactive eating expertise! The informal vibe additionally makes it an excellent lunch spot (though it does get busy) they usually even do take-out too bonus!
The main target right here is Korean Gimbap (rice and numerous fillings rolled in seaweed) however with kimchi, Korean BBQ dishes, fried pancakes, pickled salads and vegan-friendly dishes made with silken tofu, all washed down with Korean and Japanese lagers. I’d simply say that regardless that I discovered the meals to be distinctive, I assumed the menu was slightly restricted.
My highlights…
- Eating on the ridiculously tasty Bing Soo dessert with got here with Mochi Marshmallows!
7. Punch Bowl Social – greatest for enjoyable
It is a enjoyable, hip spot which mixes video games and meals! Situated Central Eastside Industrial District, close to the Burnside Bridge, it has an open format with a playful industrial-chic design, retro touches and an off-the-cuff, light-hearted vibe!
On my go to I noticed that video games have been the large function right here (greater than the meals!) and there was rather a lot on provide together with – bowling lanes, arcade video games, pool tables, darts, ping pong, board video games and I particularly liked the karaoke rooms! It is a place to hang around with your pals, household or date!
I discovered the meals to be hearty consolation meals with a contemporary twist so loads of burgers, fries, loaded nachos, tacos. Bowls and salads have been the wholesome choices they usually additionally serve up a variety of beers, craft cocktails and wine. I’d simply say that that is sociable place so anticipate some noise and crowds at peak occasions and don’t anticipate sophistication!
My private highlights…
- Taking part in video games from my childhoods together with Pac-Man, skee-ball, and pinball!
- Bowling whereas gorging on Past Burger with kale slaw, sizzling sauce mayo and a brioche bun washed down with a West Coast Mule cocktail.
8. G – Love New American Kitchen – greatest for very distinctive
This new place – which is now one of many best-rated eating places within the metropolis – gives eating with a really distinctive idea! As an alternative of creating the meat the main focus of the meals they make the greens the main focus and the meat then turns into simply the addition as a substitute.
Situated within the Slabtown neighborhood, it’s referred to as a “reverse steakhouse” they usually greens they do serve are seasonal and regionally sourced with a farm-to-table ethos. Typical dishes embody Grilled Broccolini with hazelnut tahini which comes accompanied with rooster with honey dijon skewers if you want!
I really like the design of the place! It had tall ceilings, and a really up to date industrial-chic design with concrete, lot of crops, and trendy furnishings it’s a classy spot however intimidatingly so, it manages to nonetheless really feel welcoming.
I notably liked the open kitchen and out of doors patio. I’d simply say due to the restricted seating area it’s not your best option for big events.
My private highlights…
- Eating on scrumptious wedge salad with pickled strawberries and crispy beets on a lunch date with a pal – I liked the sustainability coverage it had too!
9. Mediterranean Exploration Firm – greatest for fashionable decor
That is my go to modern spot within the Pearl District! It’s one other Mediterranean-inspired restaurant with flavors from the Center East, North Africa, and Southern Europe nevertheless it’s a contemporary chef-driven place with funky industrial-chic decor with communal tables (in addition to extra intimate seating choices).
I additionally liked the open kitchen, the sociable vibe, the trendy bar which served up Mediterranean wine and the Mediterranean-inspired cocktails.
They served up mezze (small plates), falafels and meat and seafood dishes. I assumed it was nice that they had a great deal of choices for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free diets. I’d simply say that this place could be very standard so be sure you ebook at peak occasions!
My favourite highlights…
- The Greek Potatoes with oregano, lemon and garlic! They have been scrumptious!
10. Noble Rot – greatest for views
It is a positive restaurant providing positive views! It is a attractive farm-to-table restaurant and wine bar with which unusually incorporates a rooftop bar and a rooftop backyard the place they really develop seasonal substances that are then served up within the dishes – I liked this function a lot!
It’s situated on the 4th ground of the sustainably designed Rocket Constructing in Central Eastside neighborhood and this restaurant additionally follows this eco-friendly and sustainable ethos.
Inside I actually appreciated the decor which was trendy and comfy with earthy tones, sociable communal tables and huge, floor-to-ceiling home windows which had positive views of Downtown!
The meals was equally as particular with small plates and a robust concentrate on seasonal greens, salads (there are additionally artistic twists on conventional meat, fish and pasta dishes too). Simply be warned although, it is a standard spot so I extremely advocate reserving forward to make sure getting a desk!
- Handle: 1111 E Burnside St Fourth Flooring, OR 97214
- Location Map
- Noble Rot Web site
- Who would take pleasure in: foodies, health-conscious, vegans, {couples} on a date night time, eco-friendly diners
- Worth: $$$
My highlights…
- Trying out the lovable rooftop backyard and eating on a freshly made onion tart adopted by tasty banana daiquiri within the rooftop – I liked the views of Downtown and Mount Hood within the distance.
- The Peanut Butter and Jelly possibility for a dessert was superior!
11. Norah Restaurant – greatest for 100% vegan
I assumed this new eatery was so cute and quirky! Situated within the Sunnyside neighborhood within the Southeast district it is a 100% vegan restaurant and the pan-Asian meals right here is significantly scrumptious therefore why it’s made a spot on my checklist!
Inside I discovered it to be a comfy sit-down spot with colourful, eclectic Thai-style decor and retro touches. The vibe is informal but additionally enjoyable and pleasant, I liked how the tremendous smiley workers couldn’t do sufficient for us!
I liked that the meals is equally as colourful with full, vibrant plates of Thai and South-East Asian fusion dishes. I noticed coconut mushroom linguine, cauliflower curry, and soy-curl-and-mushroom sliders on the menu on my latest go to (though this may occasionally change)!
I simply want to say although, at peak occasions there’s a time restrict for events below six individuals – so be warned!
- Handle: 3801 SE Belmont St, OR 97214
- Location Map
- Noble Rot Web site
- Who would take pleasure in: vegans, vegetarians, health-conscious, teams of associates, informal diners, diners searching for an fascinating lunch
- Worth: $
My favourite highlights…
- I’ve to provide a particular point out to the extraordinary Pad Thai nachos! I didn’t suppose it might work, however wow it certain did!
12. Broder Soder – greatest for Scandinavian meals
For one thing very completely different I like to recommend this superior little joint which additionally enjoys prime rankings! It’s a comfy Scandinavian-style cafe situated within the Southwest of the town Portland, inside Nordia Home (a Nordic cultural heart).
Inside I used to be a giant fan of the Scandi-style design which was mild and vivid, with floor-to-ceiling home windows and lashings of sunshine wooden with fashionable design options.
The meals is hearty, Nordic consolation meals, akin to Fisk Smorgasbord, Danish Pancake Rolls and meatballs (in fact)! Among the drinks on the menu particularly stood out to me although as you may’t discover lavender and oat milk chilly brew, mushroom mana mocha and Ligonberry cocktails wherever else within the metropolis that’s for certain!
There are just a few downsides although; it’s a 20 minute drive from the town heart, there’s only a few vegan choices and it’s closed throughout particular occasions.
My private highlights…
- Eating on their Savory Lefse Breakfast which featured Norwegian potato crepes – it was among the best brunches I’d had within the metropolis!
13. Tope – Greatest For Hipsters
In case you’re searching for a hip spot with a rooftop bar then I can advocate this spot! Situated within the coronary heart of Downtown it’s situated within the fashionable European owned Hoxton Lodge.
The inside design is minimalist and really modern with each Scandi and Industrial-chic design kinds. There’s additionally ultra-contemporary furnishings and distinctive design options like seating round a raised fireplace pit (which was my private favourite function)! The rooftop bar which had unbelievable metropolis views was a well-liked spot. Though the vibe is fashionable, I’d say it’s not intimidatingly so!
The meals is Mexican road meals impressed with tacos, ceviche, tortillas and tostadas with various levels of spiciness! The craft cocktails are additionally Mexican impressed. I simply want to say it’s a well-liked spot so besides lengthy wait occasions at peak occasions, even with reservations.
- Handle: 15 NW 4th Ave, OR 97209
- Location Map
- Tope Web site
- Who would take pleasure in: Instagrammers, trend-seekers, teams of associates
- Worth: $$$
My favourite highlights…
- Gazing on the excellent Downtown views from the rooftop bar – I may even see the West Hills within the distance.
- The divine churros served with dulce de leche – I don’t have to say anymore!
14. Oma’s Hideaway – Greatest For Quirky Design
Though it’s an off-the-cuff spot this place all the time wows me! Situated within the Southeast a part of the town, it’s a cool place with hawker-style meals which takes inspiration from ethnic cuisines from everywhere in the world however principally Malaysia and Singapore!
Inside, I liked that the decor is equally as eclectic with colourful and deliciously quirky decor with vibrant wallpaper and retro-style furnishings! I discovered the vibe to be playful and pleasant.
On the menu I discovered hearty (and really tasty!) dishes like spicy chilled noodles, grilled summer season corn coconut rice and salted egg yolk curry fries! It’s a sit down spot nevertheless it additionally gives very first rate take out too, bonus!
I’d simply say it will probably get crowded at peak occasions and the enjoyable, energetic ambiance wouldn’t swimsuit everybody.
My favourite highlights…
- To me the spicy noodles and roti canai (handmade flaky Malaysian flatbread) have been the last word consolation meals on a cold fall night!
15. Arden Restaurant – greatest for upscale
This actually is a ravishing place! This upscale restaurant and wine bar really has one my favourite designs and vibes out of all of the locations I’ve visited within the metropolis.
Situated in coronary heart of the Pearl District, it’s been strongly influenced by Scandinavian and Nordic minimalist design the fashion is deliciously rustic-chic with lashings of wooden, glass, impartial tones and it creates a really fashionable area however I liked the way it nonetheless manages to be cozy and welcoming.
I additionally discovered the meals which is up to date Pacific Northwest delicacies to be distinctive and I used to be a giant fan of their seasonal, farm-to-table ethos.
On my go to, pattern dishes on the menu included Alaskan halibut with curried vichyssoise and dashi-poached mussels, and eggplant cappelletti with fermented plums, There’s additionally a robust concentrate on their various assortment of Pacific Northwest wines.
I simply wasn’t eager on their choice to serve Foie Gras dishes, that’s was a bit too controversial for me!
- Handle: 417 NW tenth Ave, OR 97209
- Location Map
- Arden Restaurant Web site
- Who would take pleasure in it: foodies, trend-seekers, wine lovers, {couples} on a romantic date, new American meals followers
- Worth: $$$$
My private highlights…
- I completely adored the chef’s counter the place I sat and watch the cooks skilfully put together our dishes!
- The intimate and personalised service – I liked how our waiter provided insights into each the meals and wine and made personalised ideas to us!
16. Palomar – greatest for Cuban meals
I’m all the time charmed by this funky spot once I go to! It’s a lightweight, vivid and colourful Cuban-inspired cocktail bar and restaurant rolled into one. Situated within the Division-Clinton neighborhood, the decor is fabulous with placing Cuban-inspired patterns and classy, retro-style furnishings with just a few neon lights thrown in!
The vibe is energetic and pleasant and though there’s a robust concentrate on the tropical cocktails (from Mojitos to Daiquiris) I discovered the meals to be very engaging and attractive too!
It’s all Cuban-inspired (in fact!) with concentrate on small plates and traditional Cuban dishes like ceviche, tostones (fried inexperienced plantains), freshly made salsa and loads of black beans. I opted for the vegan possibility which was a tasty jackfruit tortilla with pickled onions and spicy peanuts.
- Handle: 959 SE Division St #100, OR 97214
- Location Map
- Palomar Web site
- Who would take pleasure in: Instagrammers, teams of associates, date-night diners
- Worth: $$
My private highlights…
- Eating on their rooftop patio – there was no dramatic skyline views however the views of the Division-Clinton neighborhood and the enjoyable, sociable vibe made it an excellent spot!
- Having a banana daiquiri made by the award-winning bartender, Ricky Gomez, who was the town’s first nationwide cocktail champion! It was an superior expertise!
17. Pine Road Market – Greatest For Meals Corridor
This one is little completely different because it’s numerous eateries – together with many ethnic – rolled into one however I really like this place! It’s situated within the coronary heart of Downtown and it’s a bustling spot with a positive array of gourmand distributors to select from.
The decor is fashionable industrial-chic with numerous wooden, stainless-steel and uncovered mild bulbs and the format is designed to be sociable with lengthy communal tables within the center. The idea works so properly it will probably get actually busy at peak time however don’t let put you off, I nonetheless discovered it to be an superior expertise!
The distributors do change from time-to-time however on my latest go to the distributors included a craft beer taproom, handmade dumplings, hand crafted mini-donuts, Ramen dishes, fried rooster, Costa Rican road meals, Thai consolation meals and a juice bar.
I’d simply say although that the social and energetic ambiance gained’t swimsuit all forms of diners.
My favourite highlights…
- I liked how they’ve became historic constructing that dates again to 1886 into a trendy, buzzy haven!
- Making new associates with fellow foodies on the lengthy communal tables!
Bonus – The Meals Carts!
The meals carts in Portland are legendary for a motive! I sampled an unbelievable array of flavors – from Korean-Mexican fusion to genuine Thai, even Ethiopian, and vegan bento containers and most dishes I purchased have been below simply $15. I’d additionally advocate hanging out on the pods (teams of meals carts) as all of them had have a enjoyable, laid-back vibe, typically with communal seating, native beer, and a welcoming, neighborhood really feel!
- Location – the perfect I discovered spots have been Cart Blocks downtown, Hawthorne Asylum in SE, Prost Market in North Portland, and Portland Mercado within the southeast, all providing various world eats in vibrant, community-focused settings.
- Who would take pleasure in: foodies, price range vacationers, solo explorers, teams of associates, and anybody who loves attempting various, artistic road meals in an off-the-cuff, energetic ambiance!
- Worth: $
